Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs are staring down a critical stretch of their season with playoff hopes on shaky ground. After years of dominance in the AFC, the reigning conference champions are now sitting at 5-5, struggling to find the offensive rhythm that once made them untouchable.
In ESPN’s latest power rankings, Reid was named the figure under the most pressure in Kansas City. The report pointed to the team’s declining offensive production and unsteady playcalling, emphasizing that Reid must reestablish balance and creativity to get quarterback Patrick Mahomes back into rhythm. Reid’s pass-heavy approach has drawn criticism from analysts who argue that the Chiefs have become too predictable, limiting their ability to dictate tempo or control possession.
Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid, NFL
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Reid himself downplayed the need for sweeping changes, telling reporters that the team merely need to clean up execution. Yet, the numbers suggest the problem runs deeper than a few missed assignments. Kansas City’s offense has averaged just 20 points per game over its last three outings and ranks among the league’s lowest in rushing attempts. Inefficiency against man coverage and self-inflicted penalties have also become recurring issues that the veteran coach has promised to correct.
Some other analysts noted Reid’s renewed focus on small details, from cutting down on penalties to improving discipline along the offensive line. At the same time, there are those who highlighted concerns that years of deep postseason runs may be taking a toll on the team’s energy levels. Reid, who quipped that he’s more tired of press conferences than football, dismissed fatigue as an excuse while insisting that the Chiefs still have the tools to contend if they rediscover consistency.
ESPN’s NFL Expert Says Andy Reid and Kansas City Chiefs Need a Balanced Playcalling
Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid, NFL
Sep 14, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid arrives prior to the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Kansas City needs to execute a more balanced playcalling under Reid. This is detailed more in an analysis by Nate Taylor for ESPN.
The Chiefs have plenty of talent on their roster, and this season was supposed to be about the offense returning to being a dominant unit. But Reid’s game plans in the past two games, losses to the Bills and Broncos following a bye week, have been perplexing. Reid needs to get quarterback Patrick Mahomes in rhythm quicker, and his playcalling needs to be more balanced and diverse to outwit opposing defenses over the second half.
In recent weeks, even Mahomes has struggled to sustain drives in key moments, a far cry from the poise and explosiveness fans have grown accustomed to. To stay competitive in the AFC wild-card race, Kansas City must translate Reid’s methodical corrections into on-field chemistry and sharper execution.
Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid, NFL
Sep 28, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid watches team warm ups against the Baltimore Ravens prior to a game during the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
For the Chiefs, this next chapter will test not only their resilience but their identity as a dynasty. If Reid can restore balance and composure to his offense, the franchise may yet awaken from its midseason slump in time to rescue its playoff ambitions.
Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid, NFL
Oct 12, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid arrives at the stadium before the game against the Detroit Lions at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
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